1983 Ferrari 308 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 2,925 cc (8 cylinders), 1983 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ferrari 308 (230 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ferrari 308 weights approximately 206 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Ferrari 308 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1983 Ferrari 308. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1983 Ferrari 308 (255 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1983 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1983 Ferrari 308 has manual transmission. 1983 Ferrari 308 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ferrari 308 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mazda |
| Model | 308 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2925 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
